Skoda has announced that it will be the official support for the upcoming visit of Pope Francis II to Ireland.
The leader of the Roman Catholic Church will be attending the 2018 World Meeting of Families – an annual event for the religion – and vehicles from the Czech manufacturer will be used to transport the pontiff around during his stay in Ireland.
When Pope Francis lands at Dublin Airport, a specially modified Skoda Rapid will be used to transfer him to the Irish presidential residence at Aras an Uachtarain.
The Rapid in question has been fitted with thicker glass for additional protection, a custom arm rest and small chrome flag poles displaying the Vatican flag on the front fenders, as well as being painted in the requested navy blue.
Raymond Leddy, Skoda Ireland head of marketing and products, said: “We offer some of the most spacious cars on the market, perfect for families young and old, so this is a great opportunity for us to showcase the quality of the Skoda range to mass audiences, both at home and abroad.
“The Skoda Rapid was chosen as it is one of the best value vehicles in the Skoda range, providing extensive rear-seat space and ease of access.
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“As part of the Papal fleet, we are commemorating Pope John Paul II’s visit to Ireland, with vehicle registration 182-C-1979 and, of course, marking this year’s event with vehicle registration 182-C-2018. 182-D-9093 is the primary vehicle, which, when the digits 9093 are inverted, spells out the word Pope.”
Skoda will also supply the support staff and dignitaries with Karoq, Octavia and Superb models throughout the event, which is taking place at Phoenix Park in Dublin. Up to 500,000 people are expected to attend mass under Pope Franics.
The Argentine-born pope is known for choosing more modest vehicles over the recognisable glass-sided Popemobile, with Francis often seen driving his old Renault 4 around the Vatican.
